Calgary families preparing for Thanksgiving dinner are facing unprecedented costs as turkey prices soar to a record high of $52 for an average 15-pound bird, according to a price survey conducted by Calgary Prices across major grocery retailers in the city.
The steep increase represents a 24% jump from last year's average of $42 and marks the highest Thanksgiving turkey prices ever recorded in Calgary, putting additional strain on household budgets already stretched by persistent food inflation.
"It's absolutely shocking," said Maria Santos, a Bridgeland resident shopping at a northeast Calgary Superstore. "We're looking at spending over $100 just for the basics of a traditional Thanksgiving meal for our family of six. Something has to give."
The price surge affects retailers across Calgary, with Safeway locations averaging $51 per bird, while Walmart and Costco offer slightly lower prices at $48 and $46 respectively. Independent butcher shops are seeing even higher prices, with some premium turkeys reaching $65.
Statistics Canada data shows food prices in Calgary have risen 8.3% year-over-year, significantly outpacing the national average of 6.7%. Turkey prices have been particularly volatile due to ongoing supply chain disruptions and increased feed costs affecting poultry farmers across Alberta.
Industry Experts Point to Multiple Factors
Agricultural economist Dr. Jennifer Mitchell from the University of Calgary explains the price increases stem from a "perfect storm" of factors including higher grain costs, transportation expenses, and processing facility challenges that have plagued the poultry industry since 2024.
"We're seeing the cumulative effect of two years of supply chain pressures, combined with increased demand as families return to larger holiday gatherings," Mitchell said. "Unfortunately, consumers are bearing the brunt of these systemic issues."
The Alberta Turkey Producers Association reports that feed costs alone have increased 35% since 2025, while labour shortages at processing facilities have reduced production capacity by 12% province-wide.
Local Families Adjust Holiday Plans
The price increases are forcing many Calgary families to reconsider their Thanksgiving traditions. Community organizations report increased requests for holiday meal assistance, with the Calgary Food Bank seeing a 18% spike in turkey requests compared to last year.
"We're seeing families who have never needed help before reaching out," said Calgary Food Bank CEO Amanda Rodriguez. "The cost of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner has simply become unaffordable for many working families."
Some Calgary residents are exploring alternatives, with local grocery stores reporting increased sales of chicken, ham, and vegetarian options as budget-conscious families seek more affordable centrepiece options for their holiday meals.
The Calgary Prices survey indicates that a complete traditional Thanksgiving meal for a family of eight now costs an estimated $180, up from $145 last year, putting the holiday feast out of reach for many households already struggling with rising housing and energy costs.